In an atmosphere of emotion and in the presence of a large crowd, Pantokrator Gate was officially reopened to the public, marking a historic moment for the city of Heraklion. The landmark monument has been returned to the citizens, hosting the remarkable exhibition by the Heraklion Ephorate of Antiquities entitled “Heraklion – 40 Centuries of History”, which opened on the afternoon of Friday, 24 July 2026.

With the official reopening of Pantokrator Gate, the Municipality of Heraklion has achieved a major cultural milestone: for the first time in centuries, all four urban gates of the Venetian Walls are now open permanently and simultaneously. Pantokrator Gate, Sabbionara Gate, St George's Gate, and Jesus Gate now stand together, linking the glorious past of Candia with modern-day Heraklion.

It is worth noting that earlier on Friday, 24 July 2026, the iconic Sabbionara Gate of the Venetian Walls also reopened to the public. The gate connects Efesou Street with Doukos Bofor Street and will remain open, under supervision, from Monday to Saturday, between 09:00 and 22:00.